THE desire to start up a business is as strong as ever, regional development chiefs have claimed.

Funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), the Northwest Business Angels service follow a similar concept to the BBC programme Dragons’ Den.

It aims to connect young and growing companies with investors actively looking for profitable business opportunities in the area.

Each month the Northwest Business Angels Investor club meetings take place in venues across the region and it seems that more than ever people are looking to tap into the available funding.

Steven Broomhead, chief executive at the NWDA, said: “Investing in a growing company can be hugely rewarding. Business Angels unquestionably bring much more to a project than just financial assistance.

“They are able to offer expert guidance and support, best practice advice and a means to turn potential opportunities into tangible success.”